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How to join a TRACE pilot
TRACE is ready to test with real farms and real shipments. Here is what a pilot looks like, what we ask of you, and how to get started.
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The prototype has been tested with simulated data and has performed exactly as designed. The next phase is a field pilot — running TRACE with a real cooperative, real farm data, and a real shipment — to test the system under actual conditions and gather the evidence needed for a national rollout.
A pilot requires the following from a partner cooperative or exporter:
- At least two or three farms willing to record GPS location, pesticide use, and basic soil data for one growing season
- One export consignment — ideally avocado, tea, or coffee — to track from farm to port
- A logistics partner or truck with a basic temperature logger (we can assist with sourcing this at low cost)
- A willingness to share feedback on the system — what works, what is difficult, what needs to change
In return, the pilot cooperative receives the full TRACE system at no cost for the pilot period, a Digital Product Passport for the test shipment, a detailed report on their ESG compliance status, and a direct connection to our research team and any future funding or policy partnerships that emerge from the pilot.
The pilot is led by researchers from Kirinyaga University in partnership with the supervisor Dr. James Mwikya. All data collected belongs to the cooperative and will not be shared without consent.
To express interest, reach out directly to the research team using the contact details below. We will respond within five working days to discuss whether a pilot is a good fit for your operation.